Frequency Of Colonization Research Articles

Activatable prodrug for controlled release of an antimicrobial peptide via the proteases overexpressed in Candida albicans and Porphyromonas gingivalis.

Candida albicans and Porphyromonas gingivalis are prevalent in the subgingival area where the frequency of fungal colonization increases with periodontal disease. Candida's transition to a pathogenic state and its interaction with P. gingivalis exacerbate periodontal disease severity. However, current treatments for these infections differ, and combined therapy remains unexplored. This work is based on an antimicrobial peptide that is therapeutic and induces a color change in a nanoparticle reporter. Methods: We built and characterized two enzyme-activatable prodrugs to treat and detect C. albicans and P. gingivalis via the controlled release of the antimicrobial peptide. The zwitterionic prodrug quenches the antimicrobial peptide's activity until activation by a protease inherent to the pathogens (SAP9 for C. albicans and RgpB for P. gingivalis). The toxicity of the intact prodrugs was evaluated against fungal, bacterial, and mammalian cells. Therapeutic efficacy was assessed through microscopy, disk diffusion, and viability assays, comparing the prodrug to the antimicrobial peptide alone. Finally, we developed a colorimetric detection system based on the aggregation of plasmonic nanoparticles. Results: The intact prodrugs showed negligible toxicity to cells absent a protease trigger. The therapeutic impact of the prodrugs was comparable to that of the antimicrobial peptide alone, with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 3.1 - 16 µg/mL. The enzymatic detection system returned a detection limit of 10 nM with gold nanoparticles and 3 nM with silver nanoparticles. Conclusion: This approach offers a convenient and selective protease sensing and protease-induced treatment mechanism based on bioinspired antimicrobial peptides.

How to Defeat Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria in Intensive Care Units. A Lesson from the COVID-19 Pandemic. Prevention, Reservoirs, and Implications for Clinical Practice.

Background: Intensive care unit (ICU) patients are at high risk of infection due to multiple invasive procedures, malnutrition, or immunosuppression. The rapid increase in infections with multidrug-resistant organisms (MDRO) during the COVID-19 pandemic caused a dilemma, as the rules of the sanitary regime in ICU rooms were strictly adhered to in the prevailing epidemiological situation. The combat to reduce the number of infections and pathogen transmission became a priority for ICU staff. This study aimed to assess whether eliminating environmental reservoirs and implementing improved procedures for patient care and decontamination and washing equipment in the ICU reduced the incidence of infections caused by MDR strains. Material and methods: The study retrospectively analyzed data in the ICU during the COVID-19 pandemic. The samples were collected based on microbiological culture and medical records in the newly opened ICU (10 stations) and hospital wards where COVID-19 patients were hospitalized. Environmental inoculations were performed during the COVID-19 pandemic every 4-6 weeks unless an increase in the incidence of infections caused by MDR strains was observed. Through microbiological analysis, environmental reservoirs of MDR pathogens were identified. The observation time was divided into two periods, before and after the revised procedures. The relationship between isolated strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae NDM from patients and potential reservoirs within the ICU using ERIC-PCR and dice methods was analyzed. Results: An increased frequency of infections and colonization caused by MDRO was observed compared to the preceding years. A total of 23,167 microbiological tests and 6,985 screening tests for CPE and MRSA bacilli were collected. The pathogen spread was analyzed, and the findings indicated procedural errors. Assuming that the transmission of infections through the staff hands was significantly limited by the restrictive use of personal protective equipment, the search for a reservoir of microorganisms in the environment began. MDR strains were grown from the inoculations collected from the hand-wash basins in the wards and from inside the air conditioner on the ceiling outside the patient rooms. New types of decontamination mats were used in high-risk areas with a disinfectant based on Glucoprotamine. Active chlorine-containing substances were widely used to clean and disinfect surfaces. Conclusions: Infections with MDR strains pose a challenge for health care. Identification of bacterial reservoirs and comprehensive nursing care significantly reduce the number of nosocomial infections.

Wake and non-rapid eye movement sleep dysfunction is associated with colonic neuropathology in Parkinson's disease.

The body-first Parkinson's disease (PD) hypothesis suggests initial gut Lewy body pathology initially propagates to the pons before reaching the substantia nigra, and subsequently progresses to the diencephalic and cortical levels, a disease course presumed to likely occur in PD with rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (RBD). We aimed to explore the potential association between colonic phosphorylated alpha-synuclein histopathology (PASH) and diencephalic or cortical dysfunction evidenced by non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep and wakefulness polysomnographic markers. In a study involving 43 patients with PD who underwent clinical examination, rectosigmoidoscopy, and polysomnography, we detected PASH on colonic biopsies using whole-mount immunostaining. We performed a visual semi-quantitative analysis of NREM sleep and wake electroencephalography (EEG), confirmed it with automated quantification of spindle and slow wave features of NREM sleep, and the wake dominant frequency, and then determined probable Arizona PD stage classifications based on sleep and wake EEG features. The visual analysis aligned with the automated quantified spindle characteristics and the wake dominant frequency. Altered NREM sleep and wake parameters correlated with markers of PD severity, colonic PASH, and RBD diagnosis. Colonic PASH frequency also increased in parallel to probable Arizona PD stage classifications. Colonic PASH is strongly associated with widespread brain sleep and wake dysfunction, suggesting an extensive diffusion of the pathologic process in PD. Visual and automated analyses of polysomnography signals provide useful markers to gauge covert brain dysfunction in PD. Name: SYNAPark, URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT01748409, registration: NCT01748409.

Multiple taxa inoculants of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi enhanced colonization frequency, biomass production, and water use efficiency of cassava (Manihot esculenta).

Increasing water use efficiency (WUE) in crops is critical to maintaining agricultural production under climate change-exacerbated drought. One of these approaches may consist of leveraging on the beneficial interactions between crops and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). In this study, we investigated how inoculation with AMF from three different taxa (Claroideoglomus etunicatum (T1), Gigaspora margarita (T2), and Rhizophagus irregularis (T3)) and their combination (T123) and a non-inoculated "control" treatment in a greenhouse could achieve increased biomass production and water use efficiency in cassava under three levels of water availability (100% PC, 60%-moderate stress, and 30%-severe stress). Whereas T1 and T2 resulted in a lower growth rate for the plants than the control, T123 enhanced cassava height and the number of petioles and leaves. T123 and T3 increased the total plant dry biomass in comparison with uninoculated plants by 30% and 26%, respectively. The T123 and plants inoculated with T3 significantly increased cassava above-ground biomass by 19% as compared to T1 (8.68 ± 2.44g) and T2 (8.68 ± 2.44g) inoculated plants. T123 resulted in higher WUE, which was validated by the leaf carbon (δ13C) isotopic signature, significantly outperforming cassava with T1 and T2, yet there was no difference between the control and T3. Overall, this study demonstrated that the use of multiple AMF from different taxa can increase cassava growth and WUE under greenhouse conditions.

Social and clinical predictors of perianal colonisation by multidrug-resistant bacteria for geriatric patients in the internal medicine service.

Colonisation by multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria is a global health issue. The identification of patients with a higher risk of colonisation is essential. Patients admitted to internal medicine services might represent a vulnerable population with a high risk of colonisation. This study was the first to assess social and clinical variables associated with a higher risk of perianal colonisation by MDR bacteria in a Spanish cohort of patients admitted to internal medicine service. Patients admitted to an internal medicine service during 12months of recruitment (1 March 2022 to 1 March 2023) were included in the study. Perianal swabs were performed at admission to identify the presence of MDR bacteria. Social and clinical variables were collected following a directed acyclic graph. A cluster analysis was performed to identify clinical profiles of higher risk. Bivariate analyses and multivariable logistic regression models were fitted to identify potential predictors of MDR bacteria colonisation. A total of 245 patients, according to the required sample size, were included. Of them, 46 (18.8%) were colonised by MDR bacteria in perianal swabs. Female sex, age > 80years, dependency on activities of daily living, cognitive deterioration and living in long-term care facilities constituted the highest risk clinical profile. After adjustments, living in long-term care facilities and malnutrition remained the main risk factors identified. Patients admitted to internal medicine services presented a high frequency of perianal colonisation by MDR bacteria. Social and clinical variables associated with bio-psycho-social susceptibility were associated with colonisation. Special surveillance is needed in internal medicine services to control the transmission.

Higher colonization but lower diversity of root-associated arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in the topsoil than in deep soil

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) colonizing plant roots play a pivotal role in maintaining soil nutrient cycling and ecosystem stability, and this role may vary in different habitat environments. However, the influence of soil depth on root AMF colonization, diversity, and the complex interactions among AMF taxa is still not well understood. In this study, we investigated the frequency, intensity, and abundance of root AMF colonization, as well as root AMF diversity, composition, and co-occurrence patterns across three soil depths: 0–20 cm, 20–40 cm, and the soil-rock mixing layer. Soil nutrients (e.g., organic matter, nitrogen, and phosphorus) and root biomass were higher in the 0–20 cm layer than in the soil-rock mixing layer, while soil pH showed an opposite relationship. The higher root biomass in the upper soil layer may enhance root secretions and exudates, thereby promoting root AMF colonization. In contrast, the lower soil nutrient content and higher soil pH observed in the 20–40 cm and soil-rock mixing layers may contribute to greater AMF diversity in the deeper soil layers compared to the topsoil. Although no significant differences were observed in the composition of the root AMF community, specific amplicon sequence variants affiliated with Glomus, Racocetra, and unclassified taxa were more enriched in the 20–40 cm and soil-rock mixing layers compared to the 0–20 cm layer. Network analysis revealed that deep soil, compared to topsoil, enhances interactions among root AMF by intensifying competitive relationships. This suggests that the complex interactions among root AMF taxa within deep soil contribute to the resilience of root AMF in resource-scarce conditions, particularly in the 20–40 cm layer and the soil-rock mixing layer. At the genus level, Glomus, Racocetra, and unclassified taxa emerged as keystone taxa due to their prominent linkage with other root AMF groups. Collectively, the results suggest that higher soil nutrient levels and root biomass can promote root mycorrhizal colonization but suppress AMF diversity and weaken interactions among root AMF taxa in the upper soil layer compared to deeper soil layers. Furthermore, the distinct functions of AMF colonization and diversity at different soil depths should be considered when evaluating vegetation reconstruction in karst ecosystems with varied soil depth distribution.

Temporal and spatial dynamics and functional metabolism of dark septate endophytes of Gymnocarpos przewalskii Maxim. in Northwest Desert, China

In extreme habitats, plants can survive mutually with their beneficial colony partners. How dark septate endophytes (DSE) assist the relict plant Gymnocarpos przewalskii survive in extremely desert environment and maintain the stability of the ecosystem remains unclear. Studying distribution, seasonal changes and functional physiological responses of DSE colonized in roots of G. przewalskii can help understand symbiosis mechanism of these endophytes associated to relict plants in extremely arid desert environments. DSE colonization, species diversity and soil properties of G. przewalskii were measured in Anxi and Minqin sites, Northwest China in July, September and December 2019. Subsequently, the functional metabolism of DSE strain was measured, and the response of DSE strain to drought stress was performed in vitro. DSE hyphal colonization (23.3 % - 39.2 %) and DSE isolation frequency (6.0 % - 27.6 %) varied sharply among seasons and sites. Soil alkaline phosphatase, nitrate nitrogen and total phosphorus were main factors affecting the DSE composition. Twenty-six DSE isolates produced indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) in the medium, while 50 % of DSE showed a potential for IAA production in L-tryptophan-dependent. Additionally, the composition of functional metabolites of DSE strains varied greatly with different drought levels and DSE isolates, which may indirectly reflect the complementarity between different strains in helping hosts cope with drought stress. This study confirmed the temporal and spatial dynamics and growth-promoting and drought-tolerant potential of DSE community in desert environment, and provided a new perspective for exploring the survival strategy and vegetation protection of desert relict plants.

Total alditols from Cistanche deserticola attenuate functional constipation by regulating bile acid metabolism

Headings ethnopharmacological relevanceFunctional constipation (FC), characterized by chronic constipation, significantly impacts physiological function and induces psychological stress in patients. However, current clinical treatment options for FC are currently limited. Cistanche deserticola, a traditional Chinese medicine that promotes intestinal moisture and bowel relaxation, contains cistanche total alditol extract (CTAE) as its primary active extract. However, the production of CTAE, its overall efficacy, and potential mechanisms for treating FC have yet to been investigated. Aim of the studyThis study aimed to reveal the overall efficacy and potential mechanism of action of CTAE in rats with FC using a combination of stable preparation, pharmacodynamics, non-targeted metabolomics, bile acid metabolomics, and western blotting. Materials and methodsFourteen batches of CTAE underwent quality testing. A rat model of FC was developed using diphenoxylate tablets. The comprehensive pharmacodynamic effects of CTAE on FC were evaluated using fecal characteristics (wet weight, dry weight, and water content), intestinal transmission (colonic EMG amplitude, colonic EMG frequency, propulsion length, and propulsion rate), serum and colon biochemical indicators, distribution of interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC), and pathological examination. Non-targeted metabolomics was performed to assess the changes in endogenous metabolite profiles induced by CTAE. Bile acid metabolomics and western blotting analyses were employed to validate the potential mechanisms of action of CTAE. ResultsCTAE, with a total content of betaine, mannitol, D-fructose, glucose, and sucrose of (75.67 ± 3.73) %, significantly enhanced intestinal transit, regulated neurotransmitters, increased the expression of c-kit in ICC, and alleviated intestinal inflammation in rats with FC. Non-targeted metabolomics revealed that CTAE significantly alleviated FC-induced metabolic disorders, mainly the biosynthesis of primary bile acids. Targeted metabolomic analysis confirmed that CTAE regulated FC-induced bile acid disorders. Western-blotting results confirmed that CTAE increased the expression of CYP8B1, FGF15, TGR5, and FXR, thereby modulating bile acid synthesis and enterohepatic circulation. ConclusionCTAE demonstrates significant therapeutic effects on FC, primarily through the regulation of bile acid synthesis and enterohepatic circulation. These findings provide a promising foundation for the development and clinical application of novel CATE-based drugs.

Investigating the Role of Metoclopramide and Hyoscine-N-Butyl Bromide in Colon Motility

Metoclopramide is a treatment for gastroenteritis accompanied by vomiting. Hyoscine-n-butyl bromide as an anticholinergic agent causes inhibition of the acetylcholine (Ach) by acting on muscarinic receptors. The study aims to ascertain how metoclopramide affects Ach-induced cortical motility and also investigates the effects of metoclopramide alone and in combination with hyoscine-n-butyl bromide drug effects on colon motility. In this study, 1 cm of colon tissue width was cut, 2 cm long strips were made, and both sides of the tissue were secured with surgical silk at both ends of isolated bath tissues of isolated organs with (1g) tension to the suspended instrument that recorded isometric contractions. Tissue fixation is followed by drug addiction: Ach, metoclopramide, and hyoscine-N-butyl bromide. The tissue was treated with metoclopramide and hyoscine-n-butyl bromide and excess Caine for 10 min. The results show changes in colon frequency, peak-to-peak, and amplitude levels for metoclopramide, hyoscine-N-butyl, and metoclopramide and hyoscine. Apaired T-test statistically analyzes the results. Metoclopramide by itself, as well as in combination with hyoscine-n-butyl bromide, increases colon motility and induces Ach release. In addition, an analysis of the physicochemical characteristics of hyoscine-n-butyl bromide and metoclopramide molecules is conducted. The study includes theoretical calculations of electronic parameters for both protonated and unprotonated forms of these molecules in both gaseous and aqueous environments. These results show the potential use of metoclopramide as a therapeutic option for gastroenteritis with vomiting, warranting additional study, and clinical evaluation. The research also reveals hyoscine-n-butyl bromide and metoclopramide’s molecular features by their physicochemical properties.

Comparison of risk factors for Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) colonization in healthy newborns, born to mothers with and without MRSA colonization.

To compare the risk factors for MRSA colonization in healthy newborns, born of mothers with and without MRSA colonization. This case control study was conducted in post-natal unit of Lady Willingdon Hospital, affiliated with King Edward Medical University/Mayo Hospital, Lahore from January to June 2017. The vaginal and anterior nares swabs for MRSA culture were collected from mothers within six hours before planned delivery and the neonatal anterior nares swabs for MRSA culture were taken within one hour of birth. All the samples were cultured in Paediatric Microbiology laboratory in Mayo Hospital. Data were analyzed through SPSS 20.0 and logistic regression was applied for risk factors analysis. Out of total 80 mothers and their newborns, 15 (18.75%) mothers and 16 neonates (20%) were MRSA colonized. The frequency of MRSA colonization in mothers' anterior nares and vaginal swab was 17.5% and 1.25% respectively. The significant risk factors were prolonged rupture of membranes for >18 hours (p-value 0.02, odds ratio 11.85, 95% CI 1.41-99.3), birth weight <2500 grams (p-value 0.01, odds ratio 5.39, 95% CI 1.35-21.4), history of presence of meconium (p-value 0.006, odds ratio 7.30, 95% CI 1.78-29.8). The non-significant factors were age of mother (p-value 0.682, odds ratio 0.765, 95% CI 1.0.212-2.76), parity (p-value 0.185, odds ratio 3.82, 95% CI 0.46-31.66) , gestation (p-value 0.615, odds ratio 0.797, 95% CI 0.714-0.89) , mode of delivery (p-value 0.576, odds ratio 0.543, 95% CI 0.062-4.76), sex of baby (p-value 0.546, odds ratio 0.683, 95% CI 0.196-2.37) and presentation of baby at birth (p-value 0.47, odds ratio 0.795, 95% CI 0.71-0.89). The presence of meconium, prolonged rupture of membranes and low birth weight were the significant risk factors for MRSA colonization in healthy new-borns, born to mothers with and without MRSA colonization.

Temporal dynamics of wild herbaceous arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi under crop succession: Rice-bean-amaranth-okra-eggplant

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are ubiquitous symbionts that colonize approximately 80% of wild and cultivated plants, with the exception of a few botanical families such as Amarantaceae, Brassicaceae, Cyperaceae, and Chenopodiaceae, which mycorrhizae less or not at all. These symbioses are important because they improve the hydro-mineral nutrition of plants. During a succession of crops on a plot, it is possible to observe the diversity of AMF in the soil; this work fits into this framework. The experiment was carried out in pots in a completely randomized block design with 5 crops, including rice-beans-amaranth-okra-eggplant, repeated 5 times. The temporal dynamics of AMF were assessed during crop succession on the same soil. The results show a high species richness for rice, with 23 AMF species compared to 9 AMF species found on amaranth. Spore density and root colonization frequency show the same trend, respectively 5 to 38 spores per 100 g soil for rice compared to 3 to 10 spores per 100 g soil for amaranth. The colonization frequency ranged from 79 to 80% in rice and bean, while amaranth was only colonized to 13%. The introduction of amaranth during crop succession contributes to a decrease in species richness, spore density and AMF colonization frequency, in contrast to other crops.

Molecular Characterization of Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis, Enterocytozoon bieneusi and Escherichia coli in Dairy Goat Kids with Diarrhea in Partial Regions of Shaanxi Province, China.

Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis, Enterocytozoon bieneusi and Escherichia coli are important diarrheal pathogens threatening the health of humans and various animals. Goats, especially pre-weaned goat kids, that carry these pathogens are important reservoirs related to human infection. In the present study, PCR-based sequencing techniques were applied to characterize Cryptosporidium spp., G. duodenalis, E. bieneusi and E. coli in 202 fecal samples of diarrheal kids for Guanzhong dairy goats from five locations in Shaanxi Province. The positive rates of Cryptosporidium spp., G. duodenalis, E. bieneusi and E. coli were 37.6% (76/202), 16.3% (33/202), 55.4% (112/202) and 78.7% (159/202) in these goat kids, respectively. Co-infection of two to four pathogens was found in 114 of 202 fecal samples. Significant differences (p < 0.001) in the positive rates of Cryptosporidium spp. and G. duodenalis were found among locations and age groups. Furthermore, two Cryptosporidium species (C. parvum and C. xiaoi), two G. duodenalis assemblages (E and A), nine E. bieneusi genotypes (CHG3, CHG1, BEB6, CHG5, CHG2, SX1, CHG28, COS-II and CD6) and two E. coli pathotypes (EPEC and EHEC) were identified. As for Cryptosporidium, two (IIdA19G1 and IIdA19G2) and two (XXIIIa and XXIIIg) subtypes were recognized in samples positive for C. parvum and C. xiaoi, respectively. A phylogenetic analysis based on the ITS locus of E. bieneusi indicated that all nine genotypes of E. bieneusi identified in this study belonged to the group 2. Four virulence factors (ehxA, eae, stx2 and stx1) of EPEC and EHEC were found in E. coli strains. Collectively, this study explored the colonization frequency of Cryptosporidium spp., G. duodenalis, E. bieneusi and E. coli in diarrheal kids of Guanzhong dairy goats in Shaanxi Province and expanded our understanding of the genetic composition and zoonotic potential of these pathogens in goats.

Antibacterial therapy for combat gunshot trauma: eight years after (retrospective observational study)

Background. Combat gunshot wounds are characterized by massive tissue destruction and significant contamination. Infectious complications are the cause of death of 80 % victims who died late after a combat injury. Therefore, the fight against wound infection is one of the priority tasks in the treatment of combat trauma. The purpose of our study was to determine the changes in the composition of the bacterial microflora of combat gunshot wounds and its sensitivity to antibacterial drugs between 2014 and 2022. Materials and methods. We examined 167 patients with gunshot combat injuries, of which 29 were admitted in 2014, and 138 in 2022. Based on the results of bacteriological examinations of wounds performed upon admission to a third-level hospital, we studied the frequency of wounds colonization, its nature (contamination/infection), the nature of the identified microflora and its sensitivity to antibacterial drugs. Results. Of the bacteriological studies performed in 2014, no growth was found in 27.6 % of cases, in 2022 — in 41.3 % (p = 0.168). Among the positive results in 2014, 30.8 % of pathogens met the criteria for infection (≥ 104 colony-forming units; in 2022, 63.8 % (p &lt; 0.001). In 2014, A.baumannii (21.4 %), S.haemolyticus (19.0 %), gut bacteria (19.0 %) and P.aeruginosa (11.9 %) prevailed among pathogens. In 2022, the Bacillus spp. (28.4 %), A.baumannii (19.6 %), gut bacteria (14.2 %) and K.pneumoniae (10.1 %) were detected most frequently. At the same time, in 71.1 % of cases, the number of Bacillus spp. bacteria met the criteria for infection.

Effectiveness of mycorrhizal inoculants on sweet potato (Ipomoea batata) in Eutric Cambisol soils of Cuba

Introduction. The effective use of mycorrhizal inoculants is a challenge for Cuban agriculture. Sweet potato is an important crop for human and animal nutrition, being a mycorrhizal dependent crop with a successful breeding program. Objectives. To know if all sweet potato cultivars respond to inoculation and if its effectiveness varies with cultivars and growing seasons. Materials and methods. Two experiments were carried out during 2010 - 2012 on Eutric Cambisol soils from Villa Clara, Cuba. One at each planting time and repeated twice. The response of 17 cultivars to three inoculants application in the presence of a half dose of fertilization, and three non-inoculated treatments with fertilization levels of 0, 50, and 100 % of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium dose (100 % NPK) was evaluated, using a split plot design. Edible root yields, mycorrhizal colonization frequency and spores were evaluated as response variables. Results. Cultivars responded positively to inoculation and fertilization, showing differences in their yields, however, highest yields were always found when inoculated with Rhizoglomus irregulare/ INCAM-11, which were higher (p&lt;0.05) than those obtained when receiving only 50 % NPK dose. In the rainy season with higher yields, the differentiation between inoculants was higher and in thirteen and nine of the cultivars, the yields obtained with INCAM-11 were higher (p&lt;0.05) than those obtained with Glomus cubense/ INCAM-4 and with 100 % NPK respectively. In the low rainy season, no significant differences were found between yields obtained by inoculating INCAM-11 or INCAM-4 or applying 100 % NPK. In both seasons, inoculation with Funneliformis mosseae/ INCAM-2 was always lower. Colonization frequencies and spore production were always higher (p&lt;0.05) when inoculating INCAM-11. Conclusion. Under these soil conditions, INCAM-11 inoculation presented better effectivity for all cultivars and planting seasons originating the highest yields and indicators of mycorrhizal performance.

Epidemiology of Candida Species Colonizing Mucosae of HIV-Infected Patients in Two Healthcare Centers of Cameroon During 2018-2020

Aims: This study aimed to investigate Candida species colonizing HIV-infected patients in Bafoussam and Yaounde in Cameroon.&#x0D; Study Design: Cross-sectional study.&#x0D; Place and Duration of Study: Yaoundé Central Hospital (YCH) and Bafoussam Regional Hospital (BRH) between October 2018 and December 2020.&#x0D; Methodology: We included 804 HIV-infected (681 women; 123 men; age range 21-81 years). Vaginal discharge, oral swab, stools, and urine were collected, and mycological diagnosis including direct macroscopic and microscopic analyses, culture on Sabouraud chloramphenicol medium, culture on chromogenic medium, germ tube test, evidence of chlamydospores production, biochemical analysis was performed. Yeast isolates were identified using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS).&#x0D; Results: Eight hundred and four patients were recruited, and 2754 samples were collected. The colonization frequency was 17.35%, and 513 yeasts were isolated. Overall, Candida albicans 251 (48.92%) was the most frequently isolated. Non-albicans Candida (NAC) isolates have been classified into 16 species, including Candida krusei (14.23%), Candida glabrata (9.94%), Candida parapsilosis (8.18%), and Candida tropicalis (7.99%) as the major ones. There was a relationship (P-value= 0.00) between antiretroviral therapy and Candida species colonization.&#x0D; Conclusion: The results provide information on the epidemiology of Candida species in HIV-infected patients in Cameroon.

Acinetobacter baumannii: A multidrug-resistant pathogen, has emerged in Saudi Arabia.

A significant opportunistic pathogen, Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) has evolved mechanisms of resistance to a wide variety of antimicrobials, including carbapenems. In this article, we assessed the prevalence, risk factors, antimicrobial sensitivity, and resistance mechanisms among A. baumannii in several locations in Saudi Arabia. Hospital-acquired infections caused by A. baumannii were prevalent in the country due to a variety of reasons, such as the high number of critically ill patients, the frequency of gastrointestinal colonization, and the widespread use of antimicrobial medications. There has been an increase in the frequency of A. baumannii strains that are resistant to several antimicrobials, including carbapenems. Hospitals are a breeding ground for multidrug-resistant A. baumannii due to the widespread use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, the potential for patient-to-patient transmission of the bacteria, the high risk of infection during invasive intensive care unit procedures, and the high frequency with which diabetic and cancer patients in hospitals undergo invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Combinations of colistin and tigecycline with carbapenems or other antibiotics remain the best treatment option and are relatively safe to treat patients with multidrug resistance (MDR) A. baumannii infections, despite the rising incidence of resistance to these drugs observed in many hospitals. The prevalence of multidrug-resistant A. baumannii in Saudi hospitals calls for in-depth research into the underlying molecular mechanisms of multidrug resistance. In addition, a better understanding of A. baumannii resistance patterns and the establishment of a treatment protocol to reduce the infection burden in Saudi Arabia could benefit from the implementation of a local antibiogram database in tandem with a national antimicrobial stewardship and infection prevention program.

Insights into diversity and L-asparaginase activity of fungal endophytes associated with medicinal plant Grewia hirsuta.

L-asparaginase is used as one of the prime chemotherapeutic agents to treat acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The present work aimed to study the endophytic fungal diversity of Grewia hirsuta and their ability to produce L-asparaginase. A total of 1575 culturable fungal endophytes belonging to four classes, Agaricomycetes, Dothideomycetes, Eurotiomycetes, and Sordariomycetes, were isolated. The isolates were grouped into twenty-one morphotypes based on their morphological characteristics. Representative species from each group were identified based on their microscopic characteristics and evaluation of the ITS and LSU rDNA sequences. Most of the fungal endophytes were recovered from the leaves compared to other plant parts. Diaporthe sp. was the predominant genus with a colonization frequency of 8.62%. Shannon-Wiener index for diversity ranged from 2.74 to 2.88. All the plant parts showed similar Simpson's index values, indicating a uniform species diversity. Among the sixty-three fungal endophytes screened, thirty-two were identified as L-asparaginase-producing isolates. The enzyme activities of fungal endophytes estimated by the nesslerization method were found to be in the range of 4.65-0.27 IU/mL with Fusarium foetens showing maximum enzyme activity of 4.65 IU/mL. This study for the first time advocates the production of L-asparaginase from Fusarium foetens along with the endophytic fungal community composition of Grewia hirsuta. The results indicate that the fungal endophyte Fusarium foetens isolated in the present study could be a potent source of L-asparaginase.

Colonization with drug-resistant pathogens among patients in long-term care facilities and under home hospice care - a cross-sectional study.

The spread of drug-resistant bacteria is deemed a worldwide threat. Patients in long-term care, including those under palliative care, are exposed to a high risk of colonization and infection with drug-resistant pathogens. This refers primarily to long-term care facilities as opposed to home care. A cross-sectional study was carried out between 1January 2018 - 30 June 2019. The study was approved by the Bioethics Committee at the Medical University of Warsaw (KB/222/2017). The aim of the study was to assess the frequency and type of colonization with drug-resistant pathogens among patients in long-term care facilities and those under home hospice care. An additional aim was evaluation the risk of pathogen transmission according to the type of provided long-term care. The study included 129 participants: 68 patients under the care of 3 long-term care facilities in Warsaw, Poland, 42 patients under home hospice care, and 19 household members of hospice patients. All included participants provided written informed consent. Oropharyngeal and rectal swabs were obtained from all participants for microbiological assessment. Colonization with pathogens was more common in long-term care facilities residents (82.4%)than in at-home hospice patients (42.9%). Risk of colonization was significantly lower in patients staying at home than in long-term care facilities patients (OR 0.16; 95% CI 0.06-0.38). Conclusions. Risk of colonization with drug-resistant pathogens depends on the type of care and is significantly higher in patients staying at long-term care facilities. Systemic measures, such as microbiological screening, are necessary to provide optimal patient care and to ensure epidemiological safety, both to patients and their caregivers.

Prevalence of Culturable Bacteria and Yeasts in the Nasopharynx Microbiota during the Physiological Course of Pregnancy.

The aim of the study was to compare the prevalence of the nasopharyngeal carriage of culturable microorganisms in the microbiota of asymptomatic women with a physiological pregnancy (PW) and nonpregnant women (NPW). Nasopharyngeal swabs were collected from 53 PW and 30 NPW to detect bacterial and fungal colonization. Isolates were identified using the culture method and the MALDI-TOF MS technique. The nasopharyngeal microbiota (NPM) partially differed between PW and NPW. These differences in the frequency of nasopharyngeal colonization between the PW and NPW groups were not statistically significant (p > 0.05); all cases were colonized by bacteria and only two cases in the PW group were colonized by yeasts, namely, Rhodotorula spp. High levels of staphylococcal colonization, including predominantly coagulase-negative staphylococci and S. aureus in the nasopharyngeal sample, were present in both groups. The reduced number of Gram-negative rods colonized in the cases studied was seen in samples from the NPW group, particularly with Enterobacterales, and anaerobic Cutibacterium spp. were isolated only in the PW group (p < 0.05). Moreover, a higher carriage rate of Enterobacter aerogenes colonization was statistically significant (p < 0.05) and correlated with the NPW group. Pregnancy may disturb the composition of the NPM represented by commensals and opportunistic bacteria and promote yeast colonization as compared to nonpregnant women.

Microbiological evaluation of probiotic therapy in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis

Patients with pulmonary tuberculosis and multiple pathogen resistance (MDR) develop persistent disorders of the intestinal microbiome during prolonged multicomponent chemotherapy requiring correction. However, there is limited data on the use of bacterial drugs in patients with tuberculosis followed by assessing their effectiveness. The aim of the study was to evaluate changes in the intestinal microbiome after a course of probiotics along with anti-tuberculosis chemotherapy in patients with MDR tuberculosis.&#x0D; Materials and methods. The design a prospective small-cohort study (n = 30). Patients with pulmonary tuberculosis received anti-tuberculosis drugs according to the IV or V regimen, the median of the doses taken was 34.5 (30; 57.5); gastrointestinal syndrome was recorded in all study subjects. Probiotic therapy was applied by using a preparation containing Bifidobacterium bifidum and B. animalis and Lactobacillus casei, L. plantarum, L. delbrueckii subsp.bulgaricus, L. acidophilus. The course of therapy comprised 21 days,1 capsule twice a day. Before and 7 days after probiotics therapy, studies on composition of the intestinal microbiota were carried out, the frequency of virulence factors Enterococcus spp., Staphylococcus spp., Candida spp. was examined; fatty acid composition and activity of enterococcal organic acid production were studied.&#x0D; Results. After a course of probiotics, a significant increase in lactobacillus titers was recorded from 5.2 (4.0; 6.0) to 6.1 (6.0; 8.0) lg CFU/g (p = 0.05). The frequency of mucosal colonization by Candida fungi and lactose-negative Escherichia decreased by 2-fold (p = 0.001) and 3-fold (p = 0.05), respectively. The frequency of detected virulent strains significantly decreased: hemolysin-producing staphylococci by 9 times (p = 0.009), enterococci with gelatinase activity by 6 times. E. faecalis membrane oleic acid level significantly increased (C9-C18:1) (p = 0.03). In E. faecium, cis-7-palmitoleic acid (C7-C16:1) and oleic (C9-C18:1) fatty acid level increased by 2-fold (p = 0.05), and for linoleic acid (C18:2) by 4 time (p = 0.04) accompanied by elevated acid formation by 1.5 times.&#x0D; Conclusion. A single course of probiotic therapy in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis leads to qualitative microbiome changes, which are characterized by decreased levels of conditionally pathogenic microorganisms with virulent properties and altered composition of the enterococcal cell membrane accompanied by their increased biochemical activity.